Interview Hints & Tips

The Basics

Do not be late - Public transport may be useless, the traffic may have been heavy, but however sound your reasons, it won't excuse the fact that you were late for an interview! Aim to be early, you can always find a nearby café or shop.
Be smart - You never get a second chance to make a first impression so dress smartly.

Be Prepared

Look at the employers' website and research the company in-depth before you attend your interview.
Make sure that you get as much background information from us and qualify the job in detail by asking relevant questions.
Look for opportunities where you can make constructive comments and sell yourself based on your findings and knowledge of the vacancy.
Make sure you check your contacts in case you know somebody who works there – name dropping can be effective, but be careful!

Stay cool

Lots of people fail at interview simply because they are nervous – so stay calm.
Rehearse the obvious questions – what are your weaknesses? Why did you leave your last employer? What are your main motivations? Why do you think you are right for the position? Etc.
Use the third person when talking about the job; avoid sounding as though you assume the job is yours.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions when the time is right and think carefully about what you want to ask them – don’t show off or make them feel awkward though, questions like how they differentiate themselves from their competitors? or what they think the toughest/hardest part of the job is?
Don’t be afraid to point out your weaknesses - an interviewer will appreciate your candor as long as whatever you disclose can be easily remedied.
Give a firm handshake, maintain eye contact think about your body language.

Be honest!!

There really is no point lying about your background and/or skills. If you get caught, or later found out, you can be sure you won't be around for long.
Job interviews are about matching needs - if there isn't a good match, the chances are that the job won't work out.

Talk about specific achievements

Interviewers like to know how you felt about a particular success.
Some will ask for specific examples of things you've done that you're particularly proud of; how you solved problems; how you learned, and improved, from difficult situations.

Don't talk too much

Be enthusiastic and positive